San Diego Gopher Snake (Normal)

San Diego Gopher Snake (Normal)

Scientific Name: Pituophis catenifer annectens
Common Name: San Diego Gopher Snake

Species Overview

Size: Adult San Diego Gopher Snakes typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) in length; in rare cases, they may approach 7 feet (2.1 m). They are medium-to-large constrictors with a slender but muscular body, keeled scales, and a pointed snout well adapted for burrowing.

Appearance: The Normal San Diego Gopher Snake displays the classic pattern and colouration of this southern coastal subspecies. The base colour ranges from warm yellow to golden-tan, overlaid with dark brown to black blotches running along the back and smaller lateral markings along the sides. The head features distinctive dark lines running between and behind the eyes, while the belly is pale with dark speckling. This subspecies is typically more yellow and less heavily patterned than its northern relatives, reflecting adaptation to Southern California’s arid environments. The result is a bold yet naturally balanced appearance that highlights the desert beauty of Pituophis catenifer annectens.

Distribution: Native to Southern California, primarily within San Diego, Riverside, Orange, and southwestern San Bernardino counties. This subspecies is localized to the dry chaparral, grasslands, and desert-edge habitats of the coastal and inland foothills.

Habitat: In the wild, San Diego Gopher Snakes inhabit sun-exposed slopes, desert fringes, and dry scrub environments with sandy or loamy soils. In captivity, they thrive in terrestrial enclosures that mimic these arid conditions—ample floor space, dry burrowing substrate, and secure hides are key to maintaining natural behaviours.

Behaviour: San Diego Gopher Snakes are intelligent, active, and primarily diurnal constrictors. In the wild, they are opportunistic hunters with impressive defensive displays—flattening their heads, hissing loudly, and vibrating their tails when threatened. Captive-bred individuals, however, are calm, curious, and highly interactive when handled regularly, making them excellent display snakes for experienced keepers.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide an adult enclosure at least 4 feet × 2 feet × 2 feet, though larger enclosures are preferred for this active subspecies. Use dry, soft substrate such as aspen, soil-sand blend, or coconut husk to encourage natural burrowing. Include sturdy hides, climbing branches, and basking platforms.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–86°F (25–30°C) with a basking area near 90°F (32°C). Allow nighttime drops to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Keep humidity low, between 30–45%, increasing slightly during shedding.

Diet: Offer thawed rodents proportional to the snake’s size—juveniles every 5–7 days and adults every 10–14 days. San Diego Gopher Snakes are reliable feeders with strong appetites and healthy metabolisms.

Behaviour in Captivity: Active, alert, and responsive, San Diego Gopher Snakes quickly learn feeding schedules and adjust to routine handling. They display a curious nature and thrive in well-structured, enriched enclosures.

Special Considerations: Due to their strength and activity level, ensure enclosures are tightly secured. Their energetic feeding response means tongs should always be used during feeding to prevent accidental strikes.

Genetics Note

The Normal San Diego Gopher Snake represents the wild-type form of Pituophis catenifer annectens, exhibiting natural colour and pattern variation shaped by its desert environment. While not a morph itself, this form serves as the foundation for numerous selectively bred variations such as Albino, Hypo, and Striped Klumper. Regional variations occur naturally, ranging from pale coastal specimens to darker inland forms, reflecting microhabitat adaptation.

Genetic Combination Summary

The San Diego Gopher Snake (Normal) does not express any morph traits but represents the base genetic form of the subspecies:

• Wild-Type Pattern: Yellow to tan base with dark dorsal blotches and bold head markings.

• Genetic Role: Serves as the foundation for developing morph lines and maintaining genetic diversity in captive breeding programs.

Highly sought after by locality enthusiasts and breeders alike, the Normal San Diego Gopher Snake embodies the rugged beauty and adaptability of California’s native reptile fauna. Its intelligence, hardiness, and natural charm make it both a rewarding display species and a cornerstone of Pituophis collections.